Making Life Sweet...one deal at a time!: 5/1/09

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Free Kids Audio Book Downloads

Here is a great freebie! You can download three kids audiobooks for free, courtesy of Parenting.com!

Included are Rapunzel, Rikki-Tikki-Tavi and The Emperor’s New Clothes. These will be great for keeping the kids entertained this summer.

Thanks, Coupon Cravings!

Free Float Night at Sonic

On Wednesday, June 3, Sonic is thanking its customers with Free Float Night, giving away free 10 oz. Root Beer Floats from 8 p.m. until midnight at participating Sonic Drive-In locations.

For some extra fun, anyone who comes out is invited to upload their favorite photos or videos from Free Float Night. You can upload photos at http://www.sonicdrivein.com/ and for posting on the home page or send your videos to Sonic’s You Tube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/sonicdrivein.

Friday, May 29, 2009

Free Music Downloads from Amazon

Do you like music? How about some FREE music downloads from Amazon.com?

Scroll down the page a bit and you will find over 500 music downloads for FREE! Also some great deals on album downloads too. Rock out this weekend!

CLICK HERE FOR FREE MUSIC and current music deals

Frugal Living Friday: Altered Jeans

Today's FLF post is a guest post from Ashley over at Make it And Love It. I recently came across her blog and not only does she have fabulous creative ideas, she also has stylish ways to help us stretch our budget! Here is one of those ideas. Making cut-off jeans actually look NICE. What a novel idea. I love it. Thanks for sharing Ashley!

**********************************************************

Do you pay someone to do your alterations? Please don't. It really is so simple to sew your own hem. Seriously. It takes a teeny itty bit of patience to make it look nice, but you can do it.

Do your little kiddos/nieces/nephews/grand kids grow way too fast? Are they too tall for their pants from this past winter but the waist fits just fine? Well, keep on using them and chop them off into shorts.

Why not? Might save you some money.

Elli has enough regular shorts so I decided that I wanted longer shorts, like the little bermuda shorts that are hot right now. So I decided the length that I wanted them and marked it with a pin. Then I added another 1 1/4 inch to the length for the hem. Then I cut them off.

Then, I cut slits in the side that went up 1 1/4 inch plus another inch so that there would be little slits in the side after they were completed. (Also, this helps the hem lay a little better because pant legs usually aren't straight up and down. Many styles go in a bit at the knee, making it harder to hem. But the slit helps with that.)

Then I zig-zag stitched the opening of the slit, to keep it from fraying. And at the top of the slit, I stitched back and forth (like the first step of a button stitch) just to keep the slit from opening up any higher.

Then I folded the bottom under a 1/2 inch and then another 3/4 of an inch and pinned it into place. You might have to adjust here or there to get it to lay nicely. No worries, it'll work out.

Then press and go.(**Remember, you can make these longer like capri's or shorter like normal shorts. Simple.)

Nice and cool.

And guess what?

The weather man says that the sun is here to stay.

Thursday, May 28, 2009

50% off clearance prices at Old Navy

Old Navy is having their annual 50% off clearance prices sale through the weekend. Call your store first to see if they are participating.

Thanks Tiffani!

IE problems

I think I fixed the problems with IE and my website. If you are still having problems viewing my website or getting it to load, please let me know!

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

I'm Home

Hi all!

I got home from the hospital today. All went well with the birth of my new baby girl. Thanks for all your well wishes. After a few days of rest I will start posting again. Thanks!

Summer Fun!

If you are wanting to know about some great free summer activities around, here is a small list of things available. Most of these I have posted about before, but I will compile them all together for easy reference. If you live in my area, click HERE for local information.

Go bowling FREE all summer long!
Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program
Get free lunch all summer! In every town across the country, there are usually free lunches at parks or school for kids 18 and under. Anyone can come, there is no criteria for getting the free food. Google your local area for free school lunches or call your Chamber of Commerce to ask for times and locations in your area.
Free summer kids movies at Regal Cinema Theatres across the country. It goes from the end of June through the third week in August, every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am. They do this at hundreds of locations across the country. See if your city is on the list.
Wednesday Freebies at Arby's
Go to Home Depot on the first Saturdays of the month for the free kids project. They give them a little orange apron and make a craft. They start at 9am. Lowes also does kids project workshops every other Saturday, they begin at 10am. They build fun projects like birdhouses, herb gardens, football racks. Check the links for schedules or call your local store.
Tuesdays are half-price happy meal night at McDonalds, from 5-7pm. Not all McDonald's participate so call your store to see if they do.
Michaels Arts and Crafts stores offer craft Saturdays that are minimal cost. HERE is info on that, or call your local store for details. Most times they are free!
Don't forget to check with your local library to sign up for the summer reading program. Mine always has lots of great incentives and freebies for the kids!

If you know of any other fun and free summer activities, let us know! Leave a comment.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Giveaway Winner!

Thanks to all who entered the giveaway for a customized digital job chart! Here is the winner!

True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 40
Result: 13
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Comment #13 was:
Stacey said...
I have your button on my blog.
May 19, 2009 10:49 PM

CONGRATS TO STACEY!

Even if you didn't win, Alisha's designs are available anytime! Visit her at her website to place your order.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Website problems

I'm not sure what is going on yet, but I know many of you are having problems accessing my website. Try using a different browser, Firefox seems to be working better than Internet Explorer. I will try to get to the bottom of it. Sorry for the inconvenience!

Hope everyone has a great holiday weekend! Hopefully I will be having my baby. :)

20 free prints from Meijer

Do you live by or shop at Meijer? If so, here is a great deal for you! Get 20 FREE 4x6 color prints from Meijer today and develop some fun pictures you have on your computer.

Place your next day photo order online with Meijer Photo Services by end of day today (5/22) and select in-store pick-up. Then, take this printable coupon to Meijer by tomorrow (5/23) to get 20 photo prints completely free. No purchase necessary.

Thanks, Coupon Cravings!

Free full size hand cream on June 11th

Thanks, Wendi for the heads up on this!

On Thursday, June 11th, everyone who signs up for the free SELF Challenge program on Self.com will walk away with a free full size bottle of Hand Therapy Cream from Crabtree & Evelyn. This information was found in the most recent issue of SELF magazine.

The three-month Your SELF Challenge is a free, step-by-step plan for your total-body (and life!) makeover. Customize quickie cardio workouts, curve-sculpting strength moves, a feel-full eating plan, and motivational Soul Goals. Plus, you could win fantastic prizes like a spa getaway. For the first time ever, keep track with your personal control panel at Self.com—log daily calories burned/consumed, download workout videos, connect with nutritionists/trainers, and more.

Frugal Living Friday: National Vinegar Month

Welcome to Frugal Living Friday! Each week I will feature a tip that can help us stretch our budget and live more frugally! If you have a tip that you want shared on Frugal Living Friday, let me know and you could become a guest blogger for a day.

May is National Vinegar Month! Last year I did a Frugal Living Friday post on the amazing powers of vinegar. Do you know about how amazing vinegar is? There are over 1000 uses for vinegar and it can do almost anything. Read the link to learn more.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

No coupons this weekend!

Just a reminder: There will be no coupon inserts in the Sunday newspaper this Memorial Day weekend.

Click HERE to see the coupon schedule for 2009.

One Dozen Krispy Kreme's for .99 cents!

This Saturday, May 23, 2009 you can get 1 dozen original glazed Krispy Kreme donuts for only $.99! Click here to find a store near you. Make sure to call first to see if your location is participating. Thanks, Dian!

UPDATE: This is available in only five markets in Texas - Austin, San Antonio, El Paso, Corpus Christi and Laredo.

Free Breakfast Sandwich at Sonic

All my readers should know I love Sonic! Here is another great deal for you. Sonic is offering a free breakfast sandwich.

Just enter your e-mail address to receive a coupon for a FREE CroisSONIC™ Breakfast Sandwich with purchase of a large drink. Click here for the link

Thanks, A Thrifty Mom!

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Free baby welcome kit from Target

I found out about this today! If you are expecting a baby like me or know someone who is, here is a great deal! Create a baby registry account at Target HERE and you will get a free tote loaded with samples, buying guide, and coupons! Option #2 explains it, but all 3 options take you to the same sign up page. Here is my confirmation:

Congratulations!

Don't forget to pick up your Target Baby Welcome Kit loaded with coupons, samples and our indispensable Buying Guide at your favorite Target store.

UPDATE: I picked up my welcome kit today. Here is what is inside the cute tote:

Johnson's baby lotion sample with $3 coupon for a Johnson's baby gift set
$20 credit to Shutterfly (AWESOME!!!)
2 Huggies newborn diapers and samples and coupons
1 Pampers swaddlers newborn diaper with $3 coupon when you buy Pampers diapers and wipes
Buying guide for Target with lots of coupons in the back...I can't find it to list them all
$3 coupon for 32 oz Similac ready to feed formula
$1 off Target Cafe purchase of $1 or more

All coupon are Target coupons, meaning you can combine with manufacturer coupons!

Free Franks from Oscar Meyer, today only!

Oscar Meyer is giving away $1 million worth of beef franks via a free coupon in the mail.

HURRY! Today only!

SIGN UP HERE.

Thanks, Coupon Cravings!

What won't I pay for?

There are a handful of things that I refuse to pay for. Over the years I have gotten these items free or even gotten overage on them (meaning I came out ahead after I bought them). Most often I got these items with rebates, clearance sales combined with coupons, and combining rebates with sale prices and coupons:

toothbrushes
toothpaste
disposable razors
shampoo/conditioner
body wash
deodorant
lotion
cold medicine
magazine subscriptions

Some of those items I will pay for (like shampoo or conditioner), but no more than .25 cents or so. I know I can stock up for cheaper so I wait for a better deal. All of these items I have more than a one year supply of so I won't pay for them right now...only sales tax!

Other items I won't pay very much for:

pantyliners
kids shampoo
bars of soap
floss
wipes
Ziploc baggies
bandaids
first aid supplies
medicine
cereal
granola bars
oatmeal
toilet paper
tin foil

Over the years I have seen a cycle with sales. Granted, much has changed the past year with the economy so it's not as predictable as it used to be. I used to be able to get cereal for literally .30 cents a box after sale prices and coupons. That would almost never happen now, so when I say I won't pay more than $1 for something it kind of just depends on whether or not it will ever go cheaper.

I have also noticed the cycle of coupons that come available. Like Colgate coupons for example. They come out on a regular basis. So you know when the ones you have are about to expire you will be seeing some new ones. It is also pretty guaranteed that when I new product comes out on the market, a free sample will be offered and many times a sale/rebate on that item at drugstores like Walgreens, Rite Aid or CVS. So watch for that too.

Sometimes I run out of something and I have to pay for it...which KILLS me. But that doesn't happen very often so it really doesn't dent my budget too badly. :) Just stock up on those great sales and you are set. It helps to not be too brand-loyal...be willing to try another brand if you can get it for free or almost free. You might find you like it!

What won't you pay for? Maybe I missed something on my list.

Albertson's 5/20-5/26

More great deals at Albertson's this week! Free Kraft dressing is among them....it's on sale for 2/$3, and there was a $1.50/1 coupon in the newspaper a few weeks ago.

GO HERE for the printable shopping list, complete with printable coupon links and what coupons match up with the sale items.

GO HERE for current catalina offers and other pertinent information for the sale.

As always, check your local ad to make sure the same deals are being offered.

Thanks to PYP for the lists!

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Free cookbooks from Reynolds Wrap

Do you like new recipes? I do! You can sign up to get three free downloadable cookbooks from Reynolds Wrap! The cookbooks include:

Delicious Family Meals for Less
Signature Family Recipes
The Way Mama Cooked It

Inside these cookbooks you’ll find recipes for Chili Lime Pork, Super Italian Meatballs, Southern Spare Ribs, Chocolate Macadamia Cookies and more!

Thanks Couponing 101!

GIVEAWAY: Customized Job Chart

Here is another FUN giveaway!

My cousin Alisha is ultra talented when it comes to digital designs. Whether it is a blog design, customized job charts or even photography, Alisha has lots of great ideas up her sleeve & is oozing with talent! You can check out her portfolio on her website.

Alisha wants to give one of my readers a customized job chart! You can choose the design, the theme, whatever fits in your family. Here are a couple of her designs:

You can see all of Alisha's designs on her website. Are they not all so CUTE?

If you want to win a customized job chart for your family or kids, here is how you can enter to win! You can earn up to 5 entries for this giveaway. Leave a separate comment for each entry you complete. Please leave your email in your comments so I have a way to contact you.

1. Go to Alisha's website, browse around and tell me what design you would pick if you win!

2. Start following my blog.

3. Add my button to your blog.

4. Tell your friends on Facebook or Twitter.

5. Blog about this giveaway and leave the link in your comments.

Guidelines:
Giveaway goes from May 19th-May 23rd 6PM MST. Giveaway is open to US residents only. You MUST leave your email address or another way to contact you in your comments unless your email is already listed in your profile. No anonymous comments, please. Winners will have 72 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. Winners to be picked via random number generator.

GIVEAWAY Winners!

Thanks to all who entered the Smart Spending Giveaway! Here are the winners!

If you didn't win, you can order these items and MORE from Faye at Smart Spending Resources.

Winner #1 for the book:

True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 35
Result: 29
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Devin and Andrea said...
I hope I win!! #1- Who doesn't love to save money?#2- Stay at home mom with a husband that goes to school full time and works...need I say more? Thanks!
May 19, 2009 9:12 AM

Winner #2 for the workshop dvd:

True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 35
Result: 2
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Ras Family said...
I do couponing, but I know I don't do it as well as I could. I need more help! Reason #2 is I just quit my job to stay at home, so budgeting is a MUST!
May 14, 2009 12:56 PM

Congrats ladies! Please email me your mailing address and your prize will be on it's way!

Monday, May 18, 2009

Flip Flops at Old Navy this weekend for $1

Thanks Fabulessly Frugal for this info!

Old Navy will have their flip flips on sale this Saturday for $1. There's a limit to 5 per customer. It is said that they won't begin to advertise this till Thursday and there won't be a ton of advertising. It's a great time to stock up on summer flip flops!

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Free DiGiorno Flatbread Melt

Don't forget what I posted last week: The first 100,000 people to register HERE on May 18th will get a coupon for a FREE DiGiorno Flatbread Melts!

Just so you are aware....

I will be having my baby in a week or less! So if I don't respond to your emails quickly or I seem to disappear for a few days, you will know why. :) When I get home from the hospital I will let you all know I am back. I do have several posts scheduled through the next few weeks just to keep going a little bit. Plus, another giveaway...so stay tuned!

I just wanted to let you all know so you don't wonder. I don't know when this baby is coming, but it is SOON, I know that. Wish me luck!

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Albertson's doubler's in tomorrow's paper

It has been reported that my area will be getting Albertson's doubler's in the Sunday paper tomorrow. Check your Sunday paper or call your local store to see if your area is getting them. I love doubles!

ALL YOU subscribers and additional coupons

Thanks to Couponing 101 for posting about this. I was wondering myself as I have seen some differences in coupons. If you are a subscriber to ALL YOU magazine (like I am) you will want to read this!

It was recently discovered that All You was issuing additional coupons in the newsstand issue. Subscribers were not pleased - after all, shouldn’t it be the subscribers getting the added benefits? Well, All You heard your complaints and here’s what they had to say:

Subscribers are our loyal customers and we certainly don’t want them to feel short-changed. We are currently reviewing our policies about accepting coupon advertising, with a goal of more closely aligning the coupon value in our newsstand and subscriber editions. Because we work several months in advance, however, the newsstand edition of the June issue includes an extra booklet with $12.50 worth of coupons. The two editions are otherwise the same in terms of coupon value.

If you are a subscriber and you would like to receive this booklet you can email subsvcs@allyou.customersvc.com.

Please include in your e-mail:

1) Your account number, found on the mailing label just above your name and address. It is nine digits and is usually located between two asterisks, for example *123456789*

2) Your name and address as it appears on the mailing label

3) Your e-mail address

4) A specific mention that you are looking for the “Coupon book from the June issue of All You.”

If you want to buy a subscription to ALL YOU magazine, see my post HERE.

.38 cents for cream cheese at Albertson's

Here is an email from a reader with a great deal I thought I would pass along to you all:

Currently at Albertsons, using their in-ad coupon you can buy (up to 3) 8oz. bricks for .88 cents/each. But if also you use the coupon at kraftfoods.com in conjunction with it, you're only paying .38 cents.

Thanks Anna!

See my post HERE about the Kraft Foods coupons.

Friday, May 15, 2009

.49 Electrasol at Fred Meyer

If you haven't used your $2.50/1 coupon for Electrasol from a few weeks ago, don't forget to use it this weekend! It expires tomorrow.

Fred Meyer would be a good place to use it. They have Electrasol on sale for $2.99 a box, so you can get it for only .49 cents!

Thanks Tiffani for alerting me to this!

Free candy bar every Friday

I'm sure you have already seen this offer posted somewhere, it seems it is all over the internet!

But just in case you haven't, here is the scoop: Mars candy company is giving away 250,000 coupons for a FREE Mars candy bar every Friday starting at 9:00 AM ET, from now until September! I just got mine!

Frugal Living Friday: Doing Your Own Garden Starts

Welcome to Frugal Living Friday! Each week I will feature a tip that can help us stretch our budget and live more frugally! If you have a tip that you want shared on Frugal Living Friday, let me know and you could become a guest blogger for a day.

By planting your own garden starts you can save a lot of money! I started doing this myself last year and it is much easier than you would think. Last year I saved around $50 by doing my own starts instead of buying the plants at the nursery.

I save all the containers that I previously have bought with flowers, veggies, etc. and I use those for my seeds. I first plant them in the smallest containers (like you buy flowers in packs of 4 or 6) and then when they get to be 4-5 inches tall I transfer them to larger containers so they can grow to their maximum potential. Just look how my starts this year are doing so far:

This year I planted 4 tomato plants ( 2 roma, cherry, beefsteak) marigolds, watermelon, tomatillo, 2 green peppers, 2 kinds of jalapenos, basil, rosemary, and nasturtium. Everything else I plant I will do from seed. I may still purchase a few plants but with what I have done on my own here it will save me quite a bundle!

Remember my post awhile ago about gardening? The method I use is called Square Foot Gardening. It is perfect for small areas. In that post look at my garden from last year. I grew almost ALL of that myself...either from seed or doing my own starts!

It might be a little late to do your own starts this year, but think about it for next year. It is worth it.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

GIVEAWAY: Smart Spending Resources DVD and book!

I am so excited about this giveaway! My friend Faye at Smart Spending Resources has generously offered to give away a copy of her fabulous book, The Smart Spending Guide, and a copy of her new workshop dvd, How to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half!

According to Faye, "The Smart Spending Guide contains all the information you need to significantly reduce your grocery bills and regular everyday expenses. Also included is information on frugal living, budgeting, debt reduction, taking surveys for pay, mystery shopping and so much more!"

Faye is very excited about the recent completion of her new workshop dvd! She says, "Have you ever wondered how some shoppers at the grocery store can buy a whole cart full of groceries and only pay a fraction of the retail cost? Take a look at some of my recent savings examples and you'll see just what I mean. Now you can learn the techniques that save our family, and so many others, over 50% off our groceries and non-food essentials each and every week."

You will not be disappointed in this giveaway! I bought a copy of Faye's book a few years ago and her knowledge is extremely helpful as you are trying to learn how to budget, save money, and learn to coupon. Faye lives in North Carolina, but it doesn't matter where you live...you can still put all these practices to use in your area! Learn more about Faye and what she does HERE.

This giveaway will only last until May 19th at 10AM MST, so enter today! There will be TWO WINNERS...the first winner will get Faye's book, The Smart Spending Guide and the second winner will receive Faye's workshop dvd, How to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half.

You can earn up to 5 entries! Please leave a separate comment with each entry that you complete. Leave your email address in your comments so I have a way of contacting you.

1. Go to Smart Spending Resources, browse around, and tell me two reasons why you NEED to win this giveaway!

2. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and leave the link in your comments.

3. Add my button to your blog.

4. Start following my blog.

5. Tell about this giveaway on Facebook or Twitter.

Guidelines:

Giveaway goes from May 21st-May 19th 10AM MST. Giveaway is open to US residents only. You MUST leave your email address or another way to contact you in your comments unless your email is already listed in your profile. No anonymous comments, please. Winners will have 72 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. Winners to be picked via random number generator.

All You Magazine Subscription: $10

If you missed out on my exclusive deal last month with All You magazine, here is a decent deal going on right now.

Through Amazon.com, you can get a one year subscription to All You magazine for only $10. It is listed at $15 but if you order before May 31st you get an additional $5 off.

All You Magazine has high value manufacturer coupons in every issue. You can only find this magazine at Walmart, but it is cheaper to get a subscription than pay $2.25 per issue on the newsstand. This month there are over $76 in coupons! Many times there are also coupons for free items. It is a "must get" for the serious couponer!

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Restaurant.com: 70% off!

Restaurant.com is having another great sale! Right now you can get 70% off your order by using the code TASTY at checkout. You can get a $25 gift certificate for only $3! Offer ends May 16.

Restaurant.com is where you can purchase gift certificates to restaurants in your area for a great price. There are restrictions, like only one gift certificate per order and you usually need to spend around $35. You can go to a nice restaurant for around $15. I know many people who love giving these as gifts too.

New Walmart Samples

Walmart.com has some great new samples up!

Pull-Ups Training Pants
Aveeno hair care
Parent's Choice formula
Bodycology
Always Infinity

GO HERE to see the other available Walmart samples!

Wednesday Freebies at Arby's

Stop by Arby’s every Wednesday all summer long for Freebie Wednesdays. Starting today, you’ll be able to take advantage of a great “free with purchase” offer every week, and in many cases you only need to purchase a soft drink!

No coupon is necessary. However, you may want to call ahead to ask if your local Arby’s is participating in this promotion. Thanks, Coupon Cravings!

Here are the freebies for the summer:

MAY
13- Free Roastburger with Any Soft Drink Purchase
20- Free Chocolate Malt Swirl Shake with Any Sandwich Purchase
27- Free Regular Roast Beef Sandwich with Any Soft Drink Purchase

JUNE
3 - Free Iced FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
10 - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
17 - Free Regular Sidekickers with any sandwich purchase
24 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase

JULY
1 - Free Regular Beef ‘n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase
8 - Free Orange Cream Swirl Shake with any sandwich purchase
15 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
22 - Free Roastburger with any soft drink purchase
29 - Free Iced FruiTea with any sandwich purchase

AUGUST
5 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
12 - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
19 - Free Iced FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
26 - Free Regular Beef ‘n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase

Albertson's 5/13-5/19

GO HERE for the printable shopping list, complete with what coupons to use and printable coupon links.

GO HERE for additional printables, catalina information, and other sale info.

Thanks to PYP!

Want to know what current catalina offers there are? Albertson's Smiths, etc. are stores that offer catalina's (those coupons that print at the register when you check out). PYP is putting together a list of current catalina offers out there. Check out that thread HERE. Keep in mind these offers might vary by area.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Free DiGiorno Flatbread Melt

The first 100,000 people to register HERE on May 18th will get a coupon for a FREE DiGiorno Flatbread Melts! Thanks, Couponing 101!

$5 Jennie O Coupon on tonights Biggest Loser

During NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” show’s finale, which is tonight, Tuesday, May 12, 8/7c, Jennie-O Turkey Store is giving away 25,000 $5-off coupons.

During the finale on May 12, an ad drives viewers to www.jennie-o.com where they can sign-up to receive one of the 25,000 “Savor Flavor: A Guide to Sensible, Healthy Living” recipe booklets, which includes the exclusive $5-off coupon. Thanks PYP!

Easy Skirt Pattern

I love to craft. I do also like to attempt easy sewing projects from time to time, but I am by no means a great seamstress. Sewing projects can stress me out. But when my friend told me about this super easy (and free!) skirt pattern online, I HAD to try it out! My daughter loves skirts and anything girly.

I made my daughter 3 of these skirts. I did two in one afternoon. I used fabric remnants I already had at home and ribbon for one of the skirts. I did buy ribbon to match for the other two skirts. I estimate my cost for all three skirts to be around $2.50.

All you do is take your 44' wide fabric. fold in half, sew along the selvages, make the elastic casing for the top, then do the ribbon trim on the bottom. SO CUTE! I should have taken pictures of all three skirts for you to see, but here is one. I love it!

If you want to attempt making these super easy skirts, check out the free pattern HERE.

Monday, May 11, 2009

Last day of free monday rentals through Redbox

Today is the last day of free Movie Monday rentals through Redbox. They are ending their Monday code program. Today's code is 6A43JK. Use it at any Redbox location to get a free 1 night movie rental. Code expires at midnight tonight.

However, Redbox will offer a free movie code once a month throughout the summer. Beginning June 1, redbox will send a free movie code to your phone on the first Monday of the month as a thank you for using redbox.

Go HERE to read more about Redbox dvd rentals and how to find free codes.

Watch those stray catalinas

Have you ever noticed at Albertson's (or other stores too) that catalina's will be left at the register or even in the garbage by the register? When I see them, I grab them! Even my husband does that for me now. And it paid off last week. My husband was at Albertson's and saw two catalina's sitting there that no one wanted. One was a $5 off any purchase and the other was a $3 off when your purchase 3 Crest, Herbal Essences, or Joy items. Since no one had claimed them he brought them home for me.

Today when I was using my Albertson's doublers, I used that $3 catalina. I got both bottles of Herbal Essences and the Crest toothpaste for only $3.50, including tax!

This is a great example of how holding onto catalina's pays off! I used a $1/1 Crest coupon (that I doubled with the doublers) and a $2/2 Herbal Essences coupon from the 4/19 RP insert. I combined that with the $3 off catalina. I was able to use that $5 catalina last week....just watching and noticing saved me $5. What a great husband I have, and what a GREAT DEAL!

If you got the Albertson's doublers in the newspaper yesterday, you have until tomorrow night to use them. GO HERE on PYP for many doubler ideas. Keep in mind prices vary by location.

$50 in Kraft printable coupons

Kraft has put out some great high value printable coupons. They are available for a limited time, so print now! Here is the direct link. Here is a list of the coupons to print:

UPDATE: These are also available on Coupons.com! Print from the toolbar at the top of my blog to get DOUBLE the coupons!

A.1. Steak Sauce$1/1
Boca Meatless product $1/2
Breakstone’s or Knudsen Cottage Cheese or Sour Cream (16oz or larger) $1/2
California Pizza Kitchen 12’ variety $1/1
Claussen Pickles, jars $1/2
Cool Whip Whipped Topping in a can $1/2
Cool Whip Whipped Topping or Dips $1/2
Crystal Light Drink Mix product $2/2
Crystal Light Drink Mix product, any $1/1
Crystal Light Skin Essentials, B1G1 Free ( up to $3.50)
DiGiorno Crispy Flatbread Pizza 12’ variety $1/1
General Foods International Coffee $1/2
General Foods International Coffee, any .75/1
Grey Poupon Mustard, any $1/1
Honey Maid Grahams variety (10oz – 14.4 oz) $1/1
Jack’s Pizza 12’ Varieties $1/2
Jell-O Brand Gelatin or Pudding $1/3
Jell-O Gelatin or Pudding Snacks $1/2
Kool-Aid Canisters (Sugar Sweetened or Sugar Free) $1/2
Kraft Bagel-Fuls $1/1
Kraft Barbeque Sauce, any $1/1
Kraft Deli Deluxe Cheese (8oz or larger) .75/1
Kraft Easy Mac Cups, any $1/2
Kraft Mayonnaise, any $1/1
Kraft Miracle Whip Dressing $1/1
Kraft Natural Cheese (Shredded, Chunks or Slices) $1/2
Kraft Salad Dressing, any $1/1Kraft Singles (8oz or larger) $1/2
Lunchables Lunch Combinations with drink $1/2
Maxwell House Coffee (8oz or larger) $1/2
Nabisco 100 Calorie Packs (40z – 5.1 oz) $1/1
Nabisco Multi-packs (9.44oz – 26oz) $1/1
Oscar Mayer Bacon $1/2Oscar Mayer Bologna, any $1/2
Oscar Mayer Deli Creations Sandwiches $1/2
Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Meat, buy one and save $1 on any one Kraft CheeseOscar Mayer Deli Fresh Meats $1/2
Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs, any $1/2
Philadelphia Cream Cheese bricks $1/2
Philadelphia Soft Cream Cheese Spread $1/2
Planters (9.24oz – 21.25oz) (not including Trail Mix products) $1/1
Planters Big Nut Bars 5ct carton $1/1
Premium cracker (10oz – 16oz ) $1/1
Ritz Bits Sandwich cracker variety (7.5oz) $1/1
Ritz cracker variety (13.6oz – 16oz) $1/1
Ritz or Wheat Thins Toasted chips variety (8.1oz or larger)$1/1
Starbucks coffee 10oz or 12oz bag (not redeemable at Starbucks stores)$1/1
Tombstone Pizza 12’ varieties $1/2
Triscuit variety (8oz – 9.5 oz) $1/1
Velveeta Pasteurized Prepared Cheese product (1lb or larger) $1/1
Velveeta Shells & Cheese Cups, any $1/2
Velveeta Shells & Cheese or Kraft Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese Dinner $1/1
Wheat Thins variety (7.5oz – 10oz) $1/1

Product Testing

I love doing products tests! Over the years I have had the chance to do several. It's a fun way to get free stuff and try out new products before you buy. It's also fun mail to receive. :)

Just this past month I have been able to do four different product tests. I don't talk about them specifically because I have agreed not to. These are products that are either not on the market yet or are being tweaked. Sometimes some of the product testing CAN be talked about. It just depends on the company you are doing it through. Sometimes I get paid to test the products, sometimes I don't.

If you want to get started in product testing, I can give you a few places to begin:

Bzz Agent: BuzzAgent is based on the idea that word of mouth advertising is the best way to spread the word! You get samples, coupons and products to test in the mail then tell everyone you know about it. You can earn point to redeem for prizes as you submit your reviews and fill out surveys. BzzAgent is how I got my first Sonicare toothbrush & Sonicare UV cleaner, along with many other things...FREE! Campaigns fill up quickly, though. HERE is a previous post I did on BuzzAgent.

Mom Knows: I am a member of a 100 panel review board on Mom Knows. We test products and then review them. This past month I have been reviewing Wild Harvest Organic Products with my family. It has been fun, not to mention yummy! If you would like to read some of my reviews on Wild Harvest products, go HERE, HERE and HERE.

If you are interested in joining the Mom Knows panel, HERE are the directions for applications. If the panel is full you can join the waiting list.

Pinecone Research: I have talked about Pinecone many times. For my new readers, Pinecone Research is a survey company that pays you to do 15 minute surveys. Also product tests from time to time. I did a product test for them last week. It is difficult to get into Pinecone. I have posted before when they are accepting new applicants, and I will let you know when I hear of them needing more people again. They pay $3 per survey and $3 per product test (plus you keep the product, of course). They pay very quickly, via Paypal. I have been with Pinecone for over 6 years and love it! They used to pay $5 per survey, but now the pay is $3 with additional contest entries for big money.

Have you had experience doing product tests with companies you would like to share?

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Win a $100 Home Depot Gift Card!

Head on over to Mother Earth's Garden to win a $100 gift card to Home Depot! We could all use this, right?

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Walgreens Deals 5/10-5/16

Thanks to The Freebie Blogger for these matchups!

New to Walgreen's shopping? Read Walgreens FAQ and The Lowdown on Walgreen's Register Rewards to get started. Although, remember Walgreens has discontinued their rebate program. Read more on that HERE.

Breeze2 or Contour Glucose Monitor $14.99 and earns $5 in Register Rewards
Up to $30 off 3/22 SS
FREE + profit after coupon and rewards!

Colgate Max Fresh or Max White Toothpaste or Toothbrush $2.99 and earns $2 in Register Rewards
$1 off toothpaste 4/26 SS, $0.75 off toothpaste 2/22 SS
As low as FREE after coupon and rewards!

Iceland Health Omega 3 Fish Oil $8 and earns $8 in Register Rewards
FREE after rewards!

Kellogg’s or Kashi Cereal3/$10 and earns $3 in Register Rewards
$1.50/2 Kashi, $1 off Kellogg’s Cereals, $1.50/2 Kellogg’s (select varieties)
As low as $1.33 each after coupons and rewards!

Kraft Easy Mac 3/$3
B1G1 coupon
$0.50 each after coupon!

Palmolive Dish Soap$0.99 with in-ad coupon
$1/2 coupon 4/26 SS
Only $0.49 after coupons!

Reach Prevent Toothbrush $0.99 with in-ad coupon
$1 off 3/15 SS, B1G1 4/26 RP
As low as FREE after coupons!

Roots of Nature Hair Care $6 and earns $6 in Register Rewards
Free after rewards!

Sure Deodorant $1.99
$1.50 off 5/3 SS
Only $0.50 after coupon!

Rite Aid deals 5/10-5-16

Thanks to The Freebie Blogger for these matchups!

Alpo Canned Dog Food $0.59
B1G1 coupon
Only $0.29 each after coupon!

Charles Worthington Results, Big Hair or Dream Hair product $5.99 with a $4 SCR
Only $1.99 after rebate!

got2be
Guardian Angel Styler or Smooth Operator Mousse, Fat-Tastic Mousse or Hair Spray$4.99 with a $4.99 SCR (rebate valid 5/10-5/12 only)
$2 off any styling product
FREE + profit after coupon and rebate!

Old Spice Deodorant $1.99
$1 off 3/15 PG, $1/2 coupon 5/3 PG
As low as $0.99 after coupon!

Renuzit Super Odor Neutralizer $0.99
$1 off 3/22 SS
FREE after coupon!

Revlon Color Silk Root Perfect 2/$5 with in-ad coupon with a $1 SCR on one (limit 2)
$1/2 coupon 4/5 SS
$1 each after coupon and rebate!

Stride Gum $0.99
$2/3 coupon 3/22 SS
Only $0.33 each after coupon!

Suave Shampoo or Conditioner $0.77
$1/2 or $0.50/2 Hair Care coupons 3/29 RP
As low as $0.27 each after coupon!

Trident $0.99
$0.75 off 5/10 SS
Only $0.24 after coupon!

Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

Today May 9th, is the National Letter Carriers Association annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. It is the perfect time to go through your stockpile and donate some food to others that need our help!

Simply place non-perishable food items in your mailbox and your letter carrier will take it from there. Food banks all across the country are in desperate need of food. With all the great deals we are getting from couponing we can give back to our communities.

Weekend Shopping

Are you going to be out shopping this weekend? Here are a few deals and freebies to get while you are out!

Kohl's: Sign up for their email alerts and you will get a $5 off any purchase in store and 10% off online purchase in your email! Go down to the bottom of the page and click on the banner that says 'email alerts'. This offer comes within 10 days of signing up.

TJ Maxx: Is giving Mom's a free reusable tote with any purchase May 9th and 10th! Hurry in because they are only good while supplies last.

Avenue Stores: May 8th-10th they are offering a free gift with this printable coupon. Click here to find a store near you.

Michaels: will be having a Mother’s Day Workshop where kids can create a beaded gift for mom from 1 to 4 PM, today May 9th. Tomorrow at Michaels you can decorate a cookie for Mom from 1-4 PM.

Don't forget to check out my post on other Mother's Day freebies!

Friday, May 8, 2009

Frugal Living Friday: Cold Lunches

Taking a lunch with you to work or packing a lunch for your child to take to school can save you a lot of money! My son's school lunch costs $1.75 per day. That is $35 a month for only one child! That is one cost I am not willing to pay. According to The Hillbilly Housewife, you can prepare a nice sack lunch for around .50 cents. What a money saver!

Packing lunches can be tiresome as well as boring....what to pack? It can be easy to get tired of a sack lunch, always eating the same things.

Here are some frugal and easy ideas:

carrot sticks

celery sticks

boiled eggs

sliced apples w/dip or peanut butter

applesauce

homemade muffins

canned fruit (I use home canned fruit or canned pears, my son's favorite)

jello

sandwiches (mix it up by cutting the bread into shapes with cookie cutters)

yogurt

leftovers

One way to keep costs down as well as help the environment is to use re-usable containers instead of disposable or plastic baggies. Use a thermos or water bottle instead of pre-packaged juices. Use Tupperware containers filled with applesauce or yogurt from home instead of the individual portions sold at stores. Use re-usable totes instead of paper sacks.

Last year when Target was having their school supply clearance I picked up several ice packs for 75% off to use in their re-usable lunch tote. They work better than blue ice and don't leak either.

What do you put in your kids' sack lunches? What do you put in your sack lunch? Any tricks, tips, or advice to share?

Thursday, May 7, 2009

My Albertson's Trip

I wish my camera was working better to take a photo of everything I purchased tonight. After I took a photo of my receipt my camera started freaking out. So no photo of food, sorry! I spent $58 out of pocket, but I also got a $10 catalina back! So it's like I spent $48. And I got a TON of stuff! Not the best savings I have ever had but still VERY good, especially considering what I bought:

SOBE life water (free with coupon)
Capri Sun 10 packs (2)
Tree Top Juice (2)
Kelloggs cereal boxes (7)
Albertson's 32 oz cheese blocks (2)
Mountain High Yogurt tubs (2)
Breyers ice cream (4)
lunch meat package (1)
head of lettuce
bunch of bananas
Listerine Smart Rinse (1)
Bandaids 80 ct boxes (5)
Carefree pantiliners 60 ct (2)
Tylenol pain reliever 50 ct (1)
Visine drops (1)

Shopping at Albertson's WITH coupons saves so much more money than going to even Walmart on a regular basis! I love it!

Here are all the details on the deals this week: (the BBQ sauce/Kraft mac and cheese deal I posted about a few days ago is included)

GO HERE for the printable shopping list (with printable coupon links included)
GO HERE for the current catalina deals and more printable coupons

No more free chicken at KFC

I was just notified that KFC is no longer taking the coupons for the free grilled chicken meal with the coupons from Oprah. Here is what they said on their website or you can click here to watch a video. I'm glad my hubby got his today.

We are so sorry, but due to the overwhelming response to our FREE Kentucky Grilled Chicken™ meal coupon, we can no longer redeem the free coupon at this time. But we will honor our commitment to giving you a free Kentucky Grilled Chicken meal.

Please visit a participating KFC restaurant for a rain check form. Complete the form, attach your original coupon , and give it to the KFC restaurant manager or postmark per the form’s instructions, by May 19, 2009, and we’ll send you a rain check for your free Kentucky Grilled Chicken meal at a later date, plus a free Pepsi with our compliments. Your participating KFC restaurant will provide you with the form you need.

Please note that the redemption periods of the rain checks will vary. All other terms and conditions of the original free Kentucky Grilled Chicken coupon will apply.

Cheap kids Pepto at Walgreens

If you need to get some children's Pepto there is a decent deal at Walgreen's this week, especially if you have past Register Rewards to use.

They are on sale for $5.49 each. If you purchase 2, you get a $5 RR back. If you purchase 3, you get a $10 RR back.

I also had 2 $1/1 coupons from a P&G booklet I got in the mail, so I used those as well as past RR on my purchase. I also had to use filler items to use my RR (since I had a coupon for each box of Pepto, the RR have to have an item to attach themselves to) and I bought cheap chocolates by the register.

My total was .70 for both boxes, plus I got a $5 RR back. Not too bad. :)

Even if you don't have coupons for the Pepto, use your past RR on them to get a good deal. I love having medicine on hand when the kids are sick, and I don't have to pay full price at the store.

2 LED Book Lights only $5.99 shipped!

Here is a GREAT deal on a set of really nice book lights! FREE SHIPPING too!

Executive LED Robotic Book Light Set - 2 Pack - Excalibur 8505
Buy.com Sku: 208966300
List Price: $23.95
You Save: (74%) $17.96
Our Price: $5.99
Shipping: FREE
Buy.com Total Price: $5.99

CLICK THE BANNER BELOW TO START SHOPPING!

Free Einstein Bagel every Friday in May

Every Friday in May, all Einstein Bagels stores nationwide are giving away a free bagel to anyone who asks for a freshly baked bagel by 11am. No purchase is necessary. One bagel per person. Click here to find a store near you.

Thanks, A Thrifty Mom!

Free Digital Scrapbook Kits

I love to craft and scrapbook! The past couple of years I have gotten into digital scrapbooking.

It's been a long time since I have posted about free digital scrapbooking downloads. If you are into digital scrapbooking then check out my links I have compiled for free downloads! I am working on updating it some more so let me know if some of the links don't work. Why pay for scrapbooking where there are so many great freebies?

SummerTime Designs is one of my favorites. Go to her blog so you can download her newest kit, and all her past free digital kits. Simply beautiful!

ROAK Gymboree Code

I have a 20% off your entire purchase Gymboree code that I won't be using.

The first person to leave a comment on this post can have it! Code expires May 31st.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Free Sunscreen

Are you headed to Target this week? While there get some free sunscreen!

The travel size Banana Boat Sunscreen is only $.99. I haven't seen which variety it is, but I am told it is most likely the Sport variety.

Use the $1/1 Banana Boat product coupon from the 5/3 Red Plum insert to get free sunscreen!! Perfect to have handy in your purse or car.

Thanks to Heather at NWA Deals!

Full Size sample of Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Gel

Right at Home is offering a free full size sample of Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Gel to the first 3,000 people. This offer is available to US residents who have not won a gift pack from Right at Home in the last 180 days. Thanks, Wendi!

A great money maker at Albertson's!

If you like Mac and Cheese and BBQ sauce, this is the deal for you! I believe this is effective in the Northwest Albertson's stores. Call your store or check your local ad to double check. Here is how it works:

Kraft Easy Mac and Kraft BBQ sauce are both part of the buy $10 and save $3 instantly promotion. They are $1.00 each or .70 cents if you buy them in a group of $10.00.

Kraft BBQ sauce 18 oz. 10 for $10 with promo only .70 cents each
Use .75 cent coupon from 5/3 smart source coupon insert
final price FREE!

***Plus there is a catalina
Kraft BBQ sauce 18 oz. or larger

Purchase between 5/1 and 5/24

Buy 4 get $2.00 catalina

Buy 5 get $2.50catalina

Buy 6 or more get $3.00 coupon catalina

EasyMac cups 10 for $10 with promo only .70 cents each
Use buy one get one free coupon from 5/3 Parade or printable here
Final price .35 cents

So here is a deal scenario:
*Buy 6 BBQ sauce
*buy 4 easy mac cups
*Total will be $10.00 but then $3.00 should come off instantly
*Use 6 .75 cents off BBQ coupons (store will only be able to take .70 cents off…making them free…but won’t create an overage)
*Use 2 buy one get one free coupons on easy mac

Your total after coupon should be $1.40 plus tax
BUT then you will get back a $3.00 catalina...YOU MAKE MONEY! Awesome.
Thanks, A Thrifty Mom!

Free 8x10 at Walgreens, today only!

Get a free 8x10 print at Walgreens, TODAY ONLY!

Use code MOTHER at checkout. Choose pick up in store to avoid shipping charges.

*Coupon code MOTHER valid for one use per account only on May 6, 2009. Online orders must include 8x10 print at time of checkout to qualify. Code must be entered at time of checkout to apply discount. Multiple coupon codes may or may not be used based on cart contents. Does not apply toward collage prints, taxes or shipping charges. Order must be placed by logged-in customer by May 6, 2009 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time to qualify. Timing will be determined by Walgreens server clock. Offer valid online only. 8x10 print format not available at all locations.

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Ocean Spray free samples

I just got this notice in my email and thought I would share with all my lovely readers!

In bringing you this new line of juice drink blends, we’ve combined two of our favorite fruit flavors - naturally tart cranberry and invigorating ruby red grapefruit – with the uniquely delicious taste of pomegranate. We’re sure you’ll love these refreshing blends!

If you'd like to be among the first to try our Cranberry Pomegranate and Ruby Pomegranate Juice Drink Blends, you're in luck. During May, we'll be sampling these flavors, along with our Craisins® Sweetened Dried Cranberries, at select Wal-Mart® stores across the country. So, make sure you don't miss out on the chance to sample these products!

Click here to see if and when we'll be at a Wal-Mart® store near you.

It's going to be at my store this weekend. So check yours and if you are there get a yummy sample!

Deep Thoughts

Because of the nature of our economy right now, I have been thinking a lot about how I can do better at saving money, being prepared, and wise spending. Back in March I wrote this post about these very things.

Something else I have been thinking about are things I can do without. There are many areas I think I could cut back to save us more money, although I think we do pretty good. I have decided this is an ongoing battle that changes as times goes on.

What are your thoughts on regarding money? How are you trying to cut expenses and do without? How has it blessed your family?

Free dinner at KFC

Thank you OPRAH!

Today ONLY (until 9:59 PM) you can print a coupon for a FREE KFC 2 piece grilled chicken meal.

You can print it until 9:59 PM tonight, May 5th. The coupon is good through May 19th.

You can print 2 per computer. YAY for free dinner, courtesy of Oprah!

Free subscription to Working Mother

Get a one year free subscription to Working Mother from Rewards Gold. These go fast so sign up now!

Free Country Bob's Sauce

This offer has been around before. In fact, I got my first coupon for Country Bob's about 5 years ago. Each house I have lived in I always apply for a new coupon. This sauce is VERY good, works well as a marinade too! I like using it in place of BBQ sauce.

If you have not applied to get a free bottle of Country Bob's All Purpose sauce, you can do it today! You get a coupon by mail for a free bottle! Click here to see a list of stores that carry Country Bob’s, including Cub Foods, Kroger and Walmart. Only one coupon per household.

Monday, May 4, 2009

Menu Plan Monday: May 4

I haven't formally planned my menus the past 2 weeks. My life has been so crazy! We have just had what's in the freezer or quick meals like quesadillas. One of my goals is to get freezer meals done before my baby is born in the next few weeks so if you have any good freezer meals to share, PLEASE do!

Another change we have made the past few months since I have picky eaters in my house, is that we only have dessert once a week. That has helped a lot! (For my benefit also!)

Go to Organizing Junkie to join Menu Plan Monday!

MONDAY: Potatoes, carrots and Spanish Rice & dessert

TUESDAY: Tacos & salad

WEDNESDAY: Spaghetti & homemade breadsticks, veggies

THURSDAY: Ham and Cheese Braid

FRIDAY: Fabulous Fettuccine

SATURDAY: Leftovers

SUNDAY: Pork Roast, red potatoes, rolls and veggies (crockpot)

Walgreens EasySaver Program is being discontinued

I am so sad about this! I have been hearing rumors about Walgreen's stopping their EasySaver rebate program...and YES, it is true. Go to their website for all the details.

I am going to miss their rebate program that I have participated in for the past six years. It has really blessed my family and helped my build up my emergency storage for nearly nothing! However, they are saying that they will be doing new loyalty programs with great incentives.

Is anyone else sad about this?

New coupons at Coupons.com!

Don't forget...it's the beginning of a new month, which means the coupons at Coupons.com have been reset. So even if you printed the sames ones last month you can print them again! I make it really easy for you by having the coupon bar at the top of my blog....click on the coupon bar at the top of my blog or right here to print coupons quickly!

There are some $1/1 Kelloggs cereals, $2/1 Dry Idea deodorant, and many other high value coupons this month.

Free BIC pens at Staples

Starting yesterday, Staples has BIC Ultra Round Stic Grip Ballpoint Pen 12 pks. on sale for $1.

You can print 2-$1 off coupons from the coupon banner at the top of my blog or from here and here to get them FREE!

To view the Staples ad in your area, click here and then click “sneak peek” then “view ad”.

Thanks, Wendi!

Rite Aid 5/3-5/9 plus $5 off $25 coupon

Before you head out to Rite Aid this week be sure to take this printable coupon to save $5 on any $25 purchase (expires 5/31) to make your dollars stretch! Use this coupon BEFORE other manufacturer coupons that you have. Thanks to the Freebie Blogger for these matchups!

John FriedaBrilliant Brunette, Sheer Blonde, or Luxurious Volume Hair Care $4.99
with a $2 SCR
$2 off 4/5 SS
Only $0.99 after coupon and rebate!

Johnson’s Baby ProductsSwabs, Lotion, Powder, Baby Pack, Oil, Powder, Cologne, or Bar $1.99 with a $1 off in-ad coupon
$1 off Oil or Take Along Pack printables,
$1 off Powder
Only $1 each after both coupons!
You can also get a $10 SCR WYB $25 worth!

Maybelline Cosmetics B1G1 50% off
Get a $1 SCR WYB 1, a $3 SCR WYB 2 or a $3 SCR WYB 3
Get a bonus $5 Rite Aid gift card WYB $15 worth
$1 off mascara 4/5 RP

Zyrtec 45 ct. $26.99
Allergy Rebate: Purchase $20 worth and get a $5 SCR, buy $30 worth and get a $10 Rite Aid gift card, or buy $50 worth and get a $25 Rite Aid gift card.

Johnson & Johnson Rebate: Purchase $15 worth and get a $5 rebate, buy $20 worth and get an $8 rebate, or buy $25 worth and get a $10 rebate.

$4 off Zyrtec Printable $10 MIR WYB 2-45 ct. Packages
Get a $10 Rite Aid Certificate WYB $50 Worth

Saturday, May 2, 2009

How do I do it?

I have had several people ask me how I have time to always be shopping and deal hunting. I can tell you right now that I don't! Especially with baby #4 making it's entrance in the next 3 weeks.

Thanks to the internet, gone are the days of taking hours to pour over the ads to try to match up coupons. Rarely do I even look at the ads...maybe a few times a month, but certainly not every week. Because of so many online friends and websites, I am able to spend LESS time deal hunting and MORE time deal getting!

That being said, don't fret if you miss a deal or can't make it to every sale. There are always more. Hit the ones that you want the most and ones that will make a difference for your family. I also plan my trips. Even though I live in an area where I have all the stores around me, I don't have time to run out every time I hear of another deal or freebie. I usually go out once a week, maybe twice to run errands. (except for Walgreens and Albertsons because they are right by my house!) Just do what you can do and your stockpile will slowly increase....giving you a lot of satisfaction of not only getting great deals, but also being prepared for emergencies.